STARLINK-3081 (49152)

COSPAR: 2021-082Y | Alt Name: Starlink 3081

DECAYED

Image

Additional Sources

Launch Details

Launch Date

September 14, 2021

Launch Site

AFWTR

Launch Pad

SLC4E

Launch Vehicle

Falcon 9

Orbital Elements

NORAD ID

49152

International Designator

2021-082Y

Decay Date

4/15/2025

Basic Satellite Info

Name

STARLINK-3081

Alternative Name

Starlink 3081

Type

Payload

Status

Decayed

Owner

SPXS

Country

United States

Constellation

N/A

Related Satellites

Major Events

N/A

Summary

The STARLINK-3081 satellite, also known as Starlink 3081, is a communication satellite operated by SpaceX (SPXS) and part of the Starlink Group 2-1-22 payload. Launched on September 14, 2021, from AFWTR SLC4E using a Falcon 9 launch vehicle, this spacecraft has dimensions including a length of 0.2 meters, diameter of 2.8 meters, and span of 9 meters. Its dry mass is 275 kilograms with a total launch mass of 297 kilograms. The satellite features a Ku/Ka-band payload along with an optical inter-satellite link for communication purposes. Power generation comes from solar arrays supported by batteries. For maneuvering, it uses Krypton ion thrusters as its motor system. Its shape is described as box-shaped with additional panels.

Starlink is a satellite constellation developed by SpaceX with the aim of providing global broadband internet coverage. Thousands of small satellites are deployed in low Earth orbit (LEO), enabling high-speed internet access even in remote areas. However, the rapid increase in satellites raises concerns about space debris and the potential for collisions, which can lead to further debris creation and endanger other spacecraft. Additionally, the sheer number of Starlink satellites can affect astronomical observations by increasing light pollution. Proper deorbiting plans and international coordination are essential to mitigate these challenges and ensure long-term sustainability in space.

Physical Characteristics

Length

0.2

Diameter

2.8

Span

Dry Mass

275

Launch Mass

297

Shape

Box + pan

Radar Cross Section

Unknown

Visual Magnitude

Unknown

Color

Unknown

Material Composition

Unknown

Technical Details

Payload

Starlink Group 2-1-22

Purpose

Communication

Mission

Communication

Manufacturer

SPXS

Life Expectancy

Unknown

Bus

Starlink

Configuration

Unknown

Motor

Krypton ion thrusters

Equipment

Ku/Ka-band payload, optical inter-satellite link

Power System

Solar arrays, batteries

ADCS

Unknown

Transmitter Frequency

Unknown

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